5 Days in Wales - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Best of Wales

Enjoy this best-of trip from south to central to north Wales. Tour the most famous castles, explore the prettiest natural landmarks, and ride the best railway in the world.

Once you touch down in the capital, head north to tour the ancient Tintern Abbey and take a scenic walk around Monmouthshire, which sits on the beautiful River Wye. Then it's an early rise the following day to tour the highlights of Brecon Beacons National Park and spend some active time in this outdoor playground fishing, paddling, or cycling. 

Next, head to Cental Wales and stop at Wolf's Leap to see the Irish bridges and Devil's Staircase. Drive through the beautiful countryside to Llandovery, tour two castles, and continue through the incredible Snowdonia National Park to Llandudno. On day four, explore Anglesey on the northern coast before riding the Snowdon Mountain Railway for an unforgettable adventure. Take a unique historical tour of Conwy in the morning before heading to Chester, England, for a hoppy farewell toast. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Culinary Tour of Wales 

Bring your appetite to this food and outdoor tour! This getaway has everything from fresh seafood to local whiskey and wine tastings to excellent mountain hikes.  

Kick things off with a drive through Wye Valley into the Brecon Beacons, passing the medieval town of Tintern along the way. Stop at Penderyn Whisky Distillery for a behind-the-scenes look, followed by a taste of biodynamic wines at Acre Hills. Spend the next two days exploring the jagged Pembrokeshire Coast, stop at Café Mor for lobster rolls, take a boat to Skomer Island to visit native puffins, and enjoy more fresh seafood overlooking Carmarthen Bay. 

Day four welcomes you to the Cambrian Coast for spectacular ocean views and stops at sleepy seaside towns, followed by a visit to Harlech, famous for its castle, and time to explore a makeshift Italian village. A special ending awaits in Snowdownia—hike or ride the railway to the top of Mt Snowdon to snap a few last photos, followed by a biking trip in Coed-y-Brenin. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Hike Wales: the Pembrokeshire Coast 

Experience Wales differently on this unique hiking excursion along the impressive Pembrokeshire Coast. Gear up and explore natural and archaeological wonders, including volcanic cliffs, coastal plateaus, and burial chambers.  

Travel by train to the seaside town of Fishguard on the far west of Pembrokeshire. Lace-up for your first hike—take the bus to Newport to visit a neolithic burial chamber and the cliff tops before reaching Dinas Island, with views in all directions, and stop to see the remains of a churchyard and the curved Pwll Gwylog beach. On day two, hike to Pwll Deri with its massive volcanic cliffs and rocky outcrops, check out the port town of Goodwick, and visit the lighthouse at Strumble Head. 

Next, hike to Trefin to see more cliffs and enjoy fabulous views. Visit a working woolen mill and stop at Abercastle to visit the burial chamber of Carreg Samson. Then, hike to a small village en route to Whitesands and stop at a secluded beach. More high cliffs are had before reaching Abereiddy, and the day winds down with some sightseeing in St Davids. The final hike leads you to Solva with incredible bay views, followed by a boat ride around Ramsey Island before it's time to go home. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Wales & England: Coastal Culture, Cuisine & Castles 

From south to north, this coastal adventure blends Welsh eats, outdoor exploration, and castle tours—with a delectable English finale. 

Upon arrival in the capital city of Cardiff, take "The Cosmopolitan Cardiff Food Tour," which features a variety of cuisines and a hefty serving of sightseeing, from Cardiff Castle to City Hall. Next, head north to visit a 12th-century monastery landmark abbey, followed by a tour of the quaint, book lovers' town of Hay-on-Wye. 

Day three is a tour of the breathtaking Brecon Beacons to take in the stunning panorama of Usk Valley and Carreg Cennen Castle overlooking Black Mountain. Then, get to know the marine wildlife on a boat tour of the Gower Coast and end the day in Tenby on the harbor. Wake up and visit Caldey Island, St Davids, and the Italian-inspired village of Portmeirion, followed by a stop at the magnificent Caernarfon Castle. The finale invites you to board the Llangollen Heritage Railway before crossing into Chester, England, for a craft beer tasting and onward to Manchester for a food tour. Learn more

More Great Wales Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Wales? Check out these other Wales itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.